I am in the market for a new rod/reel to be used for fishing the local ponds and lakes here in western pasco county, Florida. Most of the fishing will be done from shore and occasionally my buddys boat.

oops sorry Olbruck, I strongly suggest a Penn Captiva combo, get either the model cv4000 or cv5000. Great strong reel, no whistles and bells, the rod is a medium heavy with a sensitive tip. 80 bucks at Bass Proshops, I think it was a little cheeper at Sports Athority.Try it before you buy it cause it might not feel right for you. But I personally think it as a real good all around spinning combo for both fresh and light salt.